Vehicle crashes through barrier near US Capitol, injuring police officer

Vehicle crashes through barrier near US Capitol, injuring police officer

NCCapitol Hill Police officer hit by car close to the White House

Theresa Hayes
|
18 July, 2017, 04:44

A Capitol Police officer sustained minor injuries when a vehicle struck a barrier and police cruiser near the Library of Congress Monday morning.

The officer has since been released from the hospital, according to police.Several streets in the area were shut down as crews searched the suspect's vehicle thoroughly.

The driver suffered minor injuries in the incident at about 1.30pm local time - 6.30pm United Kingdom time.

Katherine Gypson, a reporter on the scene for VOA, said: "Police continuing to investigate suspicious vehicle at Independence & 1st, just heard planned controlled detonation here on Capitol Hill". The spokeswoman said he has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon, felony assault on a police officer, aggravated reckless driving and driving without a permit.

Independence Avenue SE is closed between Washington Avenue and Third Street.

Capitol Police said there was no evidence to indicate any nexus to terrorism.

The conditions of those who were injured were not known. Second Street SE is closed between East Capitol Street and C Street.

The incident forced police to shut down several blocks in the Capitol Hill area while they investigated. They were seen in a black Toyota sport-utility vehicle on D Street.